Lace & Pearls

A Seattle Style blog. Helping women who struggle with their personal style or those who just need a fashion fix!

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #5 – 6 Things I’ve Learned From My Capsule Wardrobe

We are halfway through the 10X10 capsule wardrobe challenge! I have seriously learned so much about myself and my style going through this process. I've learned what works for my body type and what doesn't, and even how to pose better in photos! Curious about what else I've learned? Keep reading for all the deets. We are halfway through the 10X10 capsule wardrobe challenge! I have seriously learned so much about myself and my style going through this process. I've learned what works for my body type and what doesn't, and even how to pose better in photos! Curious about what else I've learned? Keep reading for all the deets. We are halfway through the 10X10 capsule wardrobe challenge! I have seriously learned so much about myself and my style going through this process. I've learned what works for my body type and what doesn't, and even how to pose better in photos! Curious about what else I've learned? Keep reading for all the deets.

This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

We are halfway through the 10X10 capsule wardrobe challenge! I have seriously learned so much about myself and my style going through this process. I’ve learned what works for my body type and what doesn’t, and even how to pose better in photos! Curious about what else I’ve learned? Keep reading for all the deets.

6 Things I’ve Learned From My Capsule Wardrobe

  • Cute clothes don’t always photograph well. Take this sweater for example. It has all of the qualities of a great sweater, but the waistband is not ideal for those who are wide through the midsection. In fact, this type of style makes me appear a lot larger. I’m pretty disappointed since I love this sweater so much and am obsessed with the ruffle collar.
  • Good posture is key. Sadly, my old photographer is no longer shooting and I am in the process of finding a new one. She made shooting a breeze! I could literally just show up and she would suggest poses and keep an eye out for flattering and non-flattering angles. For this shoot, I had to depend on myself and forgot to elongate my neck and posture. My previous photographer would always remind me to think tall and lengthen my neck. When I saw these photos, I realized I had missed the mark and my neck was lost in the majority of these photos. This is key in taking a flattering picture. Always stand up straight and keep your neck elongated as much as possible. You might feel awkward but your photo will look much nicer, I promise!
  • Nude-like lipsticks aren’t always best on camera. Although I love this lipstick, it just fell flat on camera. I realize now that I should have added a gloss on top to make things pop. I kinda look washed out and dead. Now I understand the beauty of heavy-handed makeup when being on camera or on stage. It looks great in real life, but on camera, brighter is probably better.
  • A button down shirt is a great closet staple. Even though I would have avoided it for this particular look, it’s a great way to add interest and stay warm in the colder months. The extra material really doesn’t do me any favors and I should have tucked it in or gone without it. I have two more looks featuring this blouse and probably could have come up with several others, so stay tuned for those.
  • Neutral palettes are easy to work with. When building a small wardrobe, neutral colors really allow you to maximize your closet and interchange your look. I do prefer neutral colors but am not shy of brighter options, so I was kinda surprised that my capsule wardrobe ended up being predominately neutral with touches of black.
  • You don’t need a lot of clothes to look good. I knew this from day one and still stand behind it! After starting this blog about 3 1/2 years ago, I shop less and value the clothes that I own. I might need more variety if my lifestyle was a little different, but for my 9-5 and casual weekends, this is all I need.

How are you enjoying this series? Do you want me to continue to focus on having a small size wardrobe or go back to sharing personal style tips? Please share your thoughts in the comments.

Shop the post: 

Sweater: J.Crew | Blouse: J.Jill c/o | Denim: J. Crew | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar) | Shoes: Report c/o Famous Footwear (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #4 – The Knit Dress and Why You Need One

I've never really been a fan of the knit dress, but now I understand why they are so popular. They're easy to style, pack well, and can be dressed up or down. What's fun about this dress is the color-block detail and contrasting blue and white vertical stripes. It's a great dress for now and later! I've never really been a fan of the knit dress, but now I understand why they are so popular. They're easy to style, pack well, and can be dressed up or down. What's fun about this dress is the color-block detail and contrasting blue and white vertical stripes. It's a great dress for now and later! I've never really been a fan of the knit dress, but now I understand why they are so popular. They're easy to style, pack well, and can be dressed up or down. What's fun about this dress is the color-block detail and contrasting blue and white vertical stripes. It's a great dress for now and later!This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

I’ve never really been a fan of the knit dress, but now I understand why they are so popular. They’re easy to style, pack well, and can be dressed up or down. What’s fun about this dress is the color-block detail and contrasting blue and white vertical stripes. It’s a great dress for now and later!

The Knit Dress and Why You Need One

  • Get ready quick. It takes the guesswork out of getting ready. Depending on the weather, you can either go bare leg or wear tights. Then top things off with your outerwear or a lightweight sweater. You can also get creative and style this dress with a cute pair of sneakers, wedges, or flats.
  • Wear on multiple occasions. What’s great about this dress is that it works for the office by adding a lightweight blazer, you can wear it on vacation, or even when running errands. The lightweight material and length make this dress super flattering and comfortable. Perfect for wherever the day takes you!
  • Great for vacations. This dress is perfect for travel since it won’t take up much space in your luggage. It will also pack well and need very little ironing, especially if you roll the dress instead of folding.
  • It makes you think outside of the box. It’s like the modern take on the little black dress but a bit more interesting. You can wear it as a skirt (shown here), with a vest (today’s post) or with a lightweight jacket. It would also look cute with a tied waist blouse or a white denim jacket.
  • You can change up the overall look and feel with accessories. Wouldn’t this dress look so cute with a floral or striped scarf? I like the idea of mixing prints, especially in the warmer months.

If you are in the market for a knit dress, look no further than J.Jill for some cute spring essentials. They have a plethora of great options.

Are you a fan of the knit dress? Share in the comments.

Shop the post:

Dress: J.Jill c/o | Sweater: Club Monaco (similar) | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Booties: Paul Green (similar) | Purse: Ted Baker (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #3 – My Best Closet Staple

Have you ever bought something that you weren't sure about only for it to end up being your favorite closet staple? That's what happened with this sweater vest. I got it last year from Club Monaco at an end of the season sale. I remember being worried that I wouldn't wear it, but wanted an alternative to my beige one.Have you ever bought something that you weren't sure about only for it to end up being your favorite closet staple? That's what happened with this sweater vest. I got it last year from Club Monaco at an end of the season sale. I remember being worried that I wouldn't wear it, but wanted an alternative to my beige one.Have you ever bought something that you weren't sure about only for it to end up being your favorite closet staple? That's what happened with this sweater vest. I got it last year from Club Monaco at an end of the season sale. I remember being worried that I wouldn't wear it, but wanted an alternative to my beige one.This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

Have you ever bought something that you weren’t sure about only for it to end up being your favorite closet staple? That’s what happened with this sweater vest. I got it last year from Club Monaco at an end of the season sale. I remember being worried that I wouldn’t wear it, but wanted an alternative to my beige one. Surprise-surprise, I’ve literally worn it weekly for the entire season! Talk about return on investment, right?

My Best Closet Staple

The best thing about this vest is it goes with everything! I’ve worn it with jeans, dresses, and every top in my closet. It’s my weekly go-to, so of course I included it in my capsule. For this look, I chose to layer this vest over my trusty snow leopard sweater, another great staple! The merino wool is so warm and smooth, plus I love the print. I could totally see the top of this outfit being paired with a faux leather skirt and tall boots. So chic!

Now that the winter sales are winding down, I highly encourage you to invest in a sweater vest for next fall. I’m on the hunt for my spring alternative now, but this one from Nordstrom will be awesome for next year. For the warmer months, I’m leaning more towards this utilitarian style. Military outerwear never really goes out of style whether it’s a jacket or vest, so I’m adding it to my wish-list this year.

That’s why Lee’s 10 x 10 challenge is amazing! It really allows you to identify the gaps you might have in your closet and separate your needs from your wants. I don’t necessarily need a vest, but do know that it allows me to maximize my closet and get more bang for my buck. In my eyes, the vest is a necessary closet staple that I will indeed pick up this spring.

I almost forgot to mention the jeans! These are the same cut and style as the ones seen here, except a different wash and no button fly. The fit is the same, but the material is definitely tighter and not as comfortable as the lighter color. You might not find them as comfortable if you are curvier in your midsection. I might even recommend sizing up. I still love the jeans, but won’t be wearing them as regularly.

What are your favorite closet staples? Please share in the comments.

Shop the Look:

Vest: Club Monaco (similar) | Sweater: J.Crew (similar) | Denim: J. Crew | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Purse: Ted Baker (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #2 – Taking Fashion Risk

Let's get to the point of today's post - trying something new and taking a fashion risk! Even though it was outside of my comfort zone, I styled this dress as a skirt and look how good it turned out. Let's get to the point of today's post - trying something new and taking a fashion risk! Even though it was outside of my comfort zone, I styled this dress as a skirt and look how good it turned out. This series is part of the10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

I’m not the biggest fan of dresses or skirts. I wear them in the summer, but pretty much steer clear of them in the colder months. I have a handful of reasons for not loving them but the three reasons that stand out the most are:

  1. Finding a comfortable shoe that is stylish. I seriously don’t have a single pair of shoes that don’t bother my feet! I primarily stick to comfort shoes since I have tendonitis in my big toe. I wear something cute for photo shoots, but in real life it’s riding boots and Hunters.
  2. I don’t like stuff around my waist. My stomach is the widest part of my body, so wearing a skirt or a structured dress is not very comfortable. I only wear them when it’s an absolute must or in the summer when it’s warm. I usually have to talk myself up quite a bit to wear a dress. Once I do, I enjoy them, and by the end of summer it does start to feel like second nature.
  3. I hate looking stuffy like I’m going to church or a desk job. I feel like everyone else looks so cool and stylish when they wear dresses and skirts, but not me! See my attempts HERE HERE and HERE. These turned out pretty good, but I feel like the black tights might have made me look a little too dressy. It also helps that all of these dresses are from J. Jill and are knit so they are very forgiving! A knit dress is also more casual, which is more me.

Let's get to the point of today's post - trying something new and taking a fashion risk! Even though it was outside of my comfort zone, I styled this dress as a skirt and look how good it turned out. Let's get to the point of today's post - trying something new and taking a fashion risk! Even though it was outside of my comfort zone, I styled this dress as a skirt and look how good it turned out.

Taking Fashion Risk

Let’s get to the point of today’s post – trying something new and taking a fashion risk! Even though it was outside of my comfort zone, I styled this dress as a skirt and look how good it turned out. 🙂

What I like about this look:

  1. The dress is super comfortable and stretchy, a great length, and non-constricting. You probably wouldn’t have guessed that it is color-blocked?! Visit the link to see the entire dress. It’s ideal for a capsule wardrobe, as it’s extremely versatile. I know I’ll wear this dress through summer and again in the fall with tights.
  2. The sweater is adorable! I am obsessed with the ruffle collar. Isn’t it the sweetest?! It also comes in three colors so I would suggest adding at least one of them to your wishlist. I know the pink color is going to be super popular.
  3. It’s versatile as mentioned previously. I’m able to go bare leg or wear tights and still be comfortable. I love how I was able to make this spring dress more transitional and wear it with my winter booties.

Other notables…

The kitty bag, keeps things fresh and care-free. While the necklace is the perfect final touch. I’m also wearing a new lip color, Urban Decay 1993, which I would categorize as a nude brown. I really like the color for everyday; it’s a little dark in photoshoots, but otherwise has great staying power.

I will definitely be wearing this look for as long as the season lets me, and will try my best to continue to take fashion risks, even small ones!

Have any tips for dressing down a skirt or dress? Share in the comments.

Shop the post:

Dress: J. Jill c/o | Sweater: J.Crew | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Purse: Ted Baker (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #1 – Mastering the Half-Tuck

I have always been envious of those who wear the half-tuck. I've tried countless times to make it work but it always looked like a hot mess! I tell friends that they need to show me, and they look amused. I have always been envious of those who wear the half-tuck. I've tried countless times to make it work but it always looked like a hot mess! I tell friends that they need to show me, and they look amused.

I am so excited to kick off this series! I have been wanting to do a capsule wardrobe ever since I discovered Caroline Rector’s Un-fancy! I’m sad that she no longer keeps her blog up, but you can still follow her on Instagram.

If you missed my introductory post to this challenge, you can check it out here. I promise, you won’t be disappointed and you might even want to create your own capsule wardrobe! Now let’s get started with the basics.

What is a capsule wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a small wardrobe made up of versatile pieces (30-40 pieces) that you love. The catch – you can only swap out your items every season (three months). Caroline’s capsule included 37 pieces for three months.

What is the 10×10 challenge?

Take 10 pieces and create 10 different outfits in 10 days. It is the mini version of a traditional capsule wardrobe that was created by Lee Vosburgh.

Spring Wardrobe Challenge – My Take

Instead of going the traditional route, I thought it would be fun to do the 10×10. As luck would have it, the next challenge is starting Friday, March 30th, but I’m starting now! Instead of doing 10 days in a row, I will be sharing one look per week for the next two months using only 10 pieces (shoes not included). I will also tag my outfits with #stylebee10x10, #Spring10x10, #10x10Friends and do a full blog post on each look.

I have always been envious of those who wear the half-tuck. I've tried countless times to make it work but it always looked like a hot mess! I tell friends that they need to show me, and they look amused.

The formula:

  • Tops
  • Dress
  • Bottoms
  • Top layer
  • Shoes (you can choose whether to include in your count)

Accessories don’t count, so load up on as much as you want!

Who should try a capsule wardrobe?

Anyone.

Why should I try a capsule wardrobe?

Planning a vacation, feel stagnant in your wardrobe choices, want to save money, need to declutter your life? All of the above?  A capsule wardrobe can help you with all of these.

My goal:

  • Prove that you don’t have to spend money to look stylish
  • Show different ways to rework your wardrobe and change things up
  • Help you identify gaps in your wardrobe
  • Inspire you to try a capsule or declutter your life by pairing down your wardrobe

I have always been envious of those who wear the half-tuck. I've tried countless times to make it work but it always looked like a hot mess! I tell friends that they need to show me, and they look amused. Tricks to mastering the half-tuck

I have always been envious of those who wear the half-tuck. I’ve tried countless times to make it work but it always looked like a hot mess! I tell friends that they need to show me, and they look amused. If it’s so easy then why does J.Crew have a tutorial on it?! Here are three fail-proof tips, now tested by yours truly:

  • Wear high-waist jeans: I understand that some people aren’t keen on a high-waist jean, but I’m here to tell you, never say never! In the past, I’ve tried the half-tuck with a low rise jean and it just didn’t work for me. Once I found these beauties, I had a change of heart. They are super flattering, even in the midsection. Rejoice!!! A high-waist jean takes the guesswork out of the half-tuck in my opinion. Just grab the front of your shirt, tuck in the front and voila! You look beyond fabulous.
  • Look for a short hem: The more material you have to tuck in the more problematic. Plus, who wants to be bothered with a long hem? It will just add extra bulk to the front and sides.
  • Keep the top thin: These camisoles are thin (available in four colors) and come in a good length, making them super easy for mastering the half-tuck.

Shop the Post:

Sweater: Madewell (similar) | Camisole: J.Crew | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Denim: J.Crew | Booties: Paul Green (similar) | Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

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